Unleash your inner ninja at new Chandler’s Ford coding dojo
What kid doesn’t want to learn how to build video games, drones and robots with their friends? Code Ninjas teaches kids to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively - essential skills for life in the 21st century.
Next week, local families will be invited to see and experience Code Ninjas in Chandler’s Ford, located in the heart of the community at The Mall on Winchester Road. Local dad of two, George Siatos, is launching the new business, working alongside centre director, Brooke McTaggart, to deliver their fun and interactive coding curriculum to children aged five-14.
“We’re really looking forward to helping educate the kids in our area and give them a head start,” said George. “What we’re hoping to create is a hub for children that are passionate about tech - somewhere they can feel at home. Essentially, a place where gaming is celebrated, and STEM subjects are cool.”
With an emphasis on the ‘fun’ in the fundamentals of coding, Code Ninjas Chandler’s Ford really is the dream destination for any child who wants to learn. They will build their own video games using JavaScript, Lua and C# as they progress through the belt system, similar to karate. The curriculum is self-paced as ninjas - the name given to students - work through the modules with the support of their Code Sensei, collaborating with their friends to problem-solve and progress. By the time the ninjas reach black belt they even publish their own app on the App Store. Beyond coding and STEM learning, kids at Code Ninjas gain valuable skills, such as critical thinking, teamwork and confidence. Code Ninjas builds the skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
“As a busy parent, I think the best thing about our centre is the emphasis we place on creating a consistently positive environment for the ninjas to learn. Our Senseis are very bright, driven and focused on helping the ninjas grow. The location and facilities are also convenient and comfortable, allowing parents to either drop off their ninjas whilst running errands, or relax in the parents’ lounge to enjoy complimentary coffee, biscuits and Wi-Fi,” added George.
Ninjas typically attend sessions twice a week. Timings are flexible so they don’t have to attend at the same time, or even on the same day, every week. The centre will also host regular themed events, with pizza parties and Parents’ Night Out sessions – meaning parents can pick their little ninjas up a little later than usual and enjoy some all-important quality time with their other halves. George and Brooke have also put considerable safety measures in place, ensuring social distancing guidelines are adhered to whilst also maintaining the fun environment already enjoyed by students in 250-plus Code Ninjas centres in the US and Canada, as well as the UK.
“First and foremost, Code Ninjas is a safe space, so ensuring our students feel comfortable and parents feel reassured is our number one priority,” said Brooke. “For now, we’ll be limiting the number of students in the centre at any one time, but our opening hours are substantial enough that as many children can visit the centre as possible. We’ll ensure guidelines are met so our ninjas can focus on enjoying themselves, learning valuable life skills at the same time. We’re excited to be able to have a positive influence on the young minds of our community.”
With Code Ninjas Chandler’s Ford’s open day fast approaching on Monday 24th August, George has begun to employ the team who will deliver their curriculum. The entrepreneurially minded dad is looking forward to inspiring the next generation of workplace talent and building a team of like-minded staff to support him in this new venture.
To sign up and take advantage of Code Ninjas introductory offers, visit www.codeninjas.co.uk/chandlers-ford-hph-uk
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Editors notes:
For more information, or to speak with George Siatos, contact Kelly Ayres at Rev PR on 07895 876745 or email kelly@revpr.co.uk
Image attached: A hi-res photo of George outside the Code Ninjas centre.